a small observation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small observation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to make a brief comment or note about something that you have noticed. Example: "I have a small observation regarding the project's timeline that I think we should discuss."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

A small observation.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Soldiers at a small observation post stop local residents and journalists from making the trip.

The New York Times

It's a small observation, meaningless to the plot, yet it demonstrates the pathologist's unreasonably idealistic nature.

The New York Times - Books

The crew built a storehouse and, because Amundsen's second goal on his voyage was to determine the current location of the magnetic North Pole, a small observation hut.

The New Yorker

The sitting area in the master suite has access, via a spiral staircase, to a small observation room with views of mainland Honduras.

The New York Times

At the time of the attack, American and Afghan forces were still building fortifications of sandbags and earthen barriers around the main outpost and a small observation post about 100 yards away.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

They simultaneously hit a smaller observation post nearby.

The New York Times

Generally speaking, a larger α results in a smaller observation steps.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

The microspheres improve the detected count rate per molecule, they also allow the use of a smaller observation volume and lower excitation power, which are beneficial to reduce molecular photodamage.

Biomedical Optics Express

But it gives a clue as to why such an apparently small observation could have had such a big impact.

The Guardian - Opinion

Hezbollah, he said, has about a dozen small observation points along the border.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a small observation" to introduce a point that is not central to the main discussion but adds a useful detail or perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "a small observation" to preface a significant critique or major revelation. This can undermine the weight of your point.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small observation" functions primarily as an introductory phrase. It prefaces a comment, remark, or point that the speaker or writer considers to be of minor significance but worth noting. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small observation" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to introduce a minor point or detail. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for various contexts, though particularly prevalent in news and scientific writing. While versatile, it's essential to avoid overstating the importance of the point being introduced and to consider more formal alternatives in specific professional settings. By understanding these nuances, writers can effectively incorporate "a small observation" into their work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minor remark

Emphasizes the insignificance or lack of importance of the comment.

a brief note

Highlights the succinctness or brevity of the observation.

a quick comment

Stresses the speed and lack of deliberation of the remark.

a passing thought

Indicates that the observation is fleeting and not deeply considered.

a casual remark

Suggests that the observation is informal and made without much thought.

a slight impression

Focuses on the impact the observation has in the observer.

a gentle suggestion

Highlights the soft way someone can point something out.

a subtle point

Emphasizes the understated or delicate nature of the observation.

a simple finding

Highlights the observation's basic nature.

a preliminary assessment

Implies the observation is an early or initial judgment.

FAQs

How can I use "a small observation" in a sentence?

You can use "a small observation" to introduce a minor point or detail. For example, "I have "a small observation" about the report's methodology."

What's a good alternative to "a small observation"?

Alternatives include "a minor remark", "a brief note", or "a quick comment", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a small observation"?

Use it when you want to introduce a point that's not crucial but still relevant. It's suitable for adding a nuance or a detail without disrupting the main discussion.

Is "a small observation" formal or informal?

It's relatively neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, consider using more formal alternatives like "a preliminary assessment" in highly formal settings.